Niteroi and Rio

What can you say about Rio besides - Wow!  

Parque da Cidade, Niteroi

Our hosts and tour guides, Robert and Jane Kilko

A Fortaleza de Santa Cruz da Barra

Notice the horn sign.  The narrow road to the fort has signs like this on curves.  At some super narrow places there were stop lights for each side to wait their turn.

Rain, rain, go away!  It was mostly cloudy and slightly rainy all day long.

Visitor Center at the Parque Nacional de Tijuca at the base of Cristo Redentor

On a cloudless day, Cristo would be right back there over these guys shoulders... we picnicked right at the base.  Anyone can drive right to the base.  Parking was only BR$20.  Our guide knows all the tricks!

Memorial along the Tijuca Parkway, 1928

A small break in the clouds along the parkway near the helipad

Copacabana Sidewalks

We got to catch a glimpse of one of the cable cars going up Sugar Loaf Mountain.  We did not pay to go up.  We opted for the cheapskate tour and only went near the bottom at the Red Beach.

Praia Vermelha

Street vendors were all over places where traffic jams often occur selling snacks and drinks.  They often got caught in the middle of lanes when a light would change or traffic would quickly start moving.

Sidewalk pattern in Niteroi.  Each city neighborhood along the beach front has its own style.

 Our time spent in Niteroi and Rio was one of the highlights of our whole trip.  The Kilkos were fabulous hosts.  Our accomodations were excellent and Mrs. Kilko's homemade bread was incredible.  Inspite of the clouds and drizzly rain it was a great stop on our dream trip.  One day I'd like to go back and see Mr. Cristo Redentor in the sun and enjoy more of that good Kilko bread and secret recipe apple oatmeal!